Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (approx. 1 cup / 150g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (approx. 2 teaspoons / 10g)
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (794g) - Good quality, crushed, not diced, tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce (425g)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (5ml)
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil (2.5ml)
  • ½ teaspoon sugar (2.5g) - Granulated sugar, to balance acidity
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste (about ½ teaspoon each)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
  • Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in the saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  2. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  3. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour for richer flavour, stirring occasionally.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or sugar to taste.
  5. Stir in fresh basil (if using). Serve hot over your favourite pasta.